Advisor - Operational Policy and Practice at NZ Ombudsman, Wellington

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te Tari o te Kaitiaki Mana Tangata – About the Ombudsman

The Chief Ombudsman works with his staff to help New Zealanders in their dealings with government agencies. The focus is on handling complaints against government agencies, undertaking investigations and inspections, and encouraging good administration. The Chief Ombudsman is independent and impartial, with the goal of fairness for all.

He wā tino pai ki te hono mai ki tō mātou tari - It's a great time to join our office

Public confidence in government institutions is under pressure. The Office of the Ombudsman in a constitutionally independent role critical to the success of good administration. Demand for our services is growing and New Zealanders need us to show up in new ways and be more accessible and impactful.

We have just completed an organisational transformation, and we are evolving how we do our mahi to have greater impact. This is a new way of working where kaimahi are genuinely empowered, collaboration is real, leadership is visible and values-driven, and where the people doing the work can see their input shaping the direction of the organisation.

Mō tō mātou tira – About the team

The newly formed Operational Policy and Practice team sits within the Governance and Strategy group, and is the heart of organisational consistency. Partnering with the business they provide expert practice advice, develop systems and processes for continuous improvement, lead quality assurance, and ensure te ao Māori and tikanga are woven into operational guidance.

A key focus of the team is collaborating across the wider organisation that support kaimahi to do their best work and practice well.

Mō te tūranga - About the role

As the Advisor, Operational Policy and Practice, you will support the development and application of operational policy, procedures, and practice guidance. The role assists in maintaining the consistency and quality of operational work by contributing to research, analysis, and the preparation of tools, templates, and guidance materials. It also supports quality assurance activities and contributes to process improvement initiatives.

You will work alongside 3 Principal Advisors and 4 Senior Advisors to deliver high quality practice advisor across the organisation.

He kōrero mōu – About you

To be successful in this role you will have:

• A relevant tertiary qualification, preferably in public or administrative law or a related discipline
• Understanding of the Ombudsman's jurisdiction and role in contemporary society
• Understanding of national and international law relevant to Ombudsman functions, including human rights
• Experience in strategic analysis, policy analysis and development, statutory interpretation or the provision of high-quality advice in complex areas
• Proven ability to provide authoritative, evidence-based advice in complex and ambiguous contexts
• Experience drafting and publishing high-quality reports, guidance materials or practice tools

Te painga o te mahi tahi me mātou - Our benefits, what we offer

Becoming part of an exceptional team in a dynamic organisation, where the work is challenging and rewarding. Your development and growth will be nurtured, and your work recognised and valued.

• Genuine career progression opportunities and professional development through training and mentoring by senior members of your team
• Flexible working options
• Competitive remuneration
• Three extra Annual Leave days after 12 months of employment
• Onsite gym and personal trainer, free to all employees
• Three paid office holidays between Christmas and New Year
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Me pēhea te tono - How to apply

To apply, click on the ‘Apply Now' button where you will need to register through our online career centre, complete our application form and upload your CV and cover letter. For further information about this vacancy please email recruitment@ombudsman.parliament.nz.

All applicants will have a legal entitlement to work in New Zealand. Appointees will be subject to a criminal convictions check and may be required to achieve and maintain a NZ Government (NZSIS) security clearance.

As the Ombudsman's role is to provide “fairness for all” New Zealanders, it is important that our staff represent New Zealanders from all walks of life. We value your individuality and how you can contribute to our team. We encourage applicants from all walks of life.

Depending on skills and experience the salary is expected to be between $95,810 - $125,750 with $119,762 being the midpoint.

This role is based in Wellington. Please note we are unable to consider 100% remote working for this role.

Applications close 5pm, 7 June 2026.